Influenza, also known as “the flu,” is a very contagious lung disease that causes an average of over 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths in the United States each year. Anyone can get the flu. For most people, the flu can cause fever, cough, sore throat, headache, chills, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Flu infections among the elderly and those with chronic heart or lung disease can lead to more serious complications, including hospitalization and even death.

Here’s who should especially consider receiving a flu shot:

• Adults over 50 years old
• Anyone with a chronic health condition
• Pregnant women
• Healthcare workers
• Caregivers for young children or the elderly
• Residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities

Even you do not fall within one of the above categories, you should still think seriously about protecting yourself from the flu this winter.